Japan and Germany have renewed their economic and defense ties with a focus on reducing their dependence on Chinese raw materials. In Tokyo, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held their first round of government consultations. They are both determined to reduce their reliance on imports from China of raw materials and electronic components, which are essential for their respective industries. The pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine have shown them the risks of depending on a specific country.
To this end, Tokyo is launching a plan to revitalize its domestic semiconductor industry, which includes creating a next-generation chip manufacturing consortium made up of leading Japanese technology and motor companies. They also plan to expand cooperation with companies from other countries. Meanwhile, Germany and Japan plan to work together to maintain and strengthen a rules-based international order.
Kishida has highlighted the need to “continue cooperating to apply sanctions to Russia and giving support to Ukraine with a view to ending the invasion of Ukraine as soon as possible.” Both countries are aware of the importance of international cooperation and intend to continue working towards that goal.
The talks come at a time when tensions in the global supply chain are high. The global landscape is dominated by the growing influence of China, and many countries are looking to reduce their dependence on Chinese raw materials. The pandemic has highlighted the need for diversification of supply chains, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine has shown the risks of depending on a specific country.
Japan and Germany have been allies for many years, and their renewed economic and defense ties are a testament to the strength of their relationship. They are determined to work together to maintain a rules-based international order and reduce their dependence on raw materials from China. These talks have shown once again the importance of international cooperation in today’s complex and interconnected world.
